The Singapore river flows with a rich story of her journey from colonial times to a much visited entertainment site. It was earlier only a fishing site, and with the advent of the British colonial rule, it became a commercial post. And now that the British gone, it has become a historical treasure.
This island city state is constantly on the ball to keep ahead of technological advances especially in the Asia Pacific region. The Parkway Health Country Manager for Sri Lanka Suvo H said that this is an essential milepost in Singapore's journey of technological development.
"This played a major role in the country's health. That's why Singapore is one of the best South Asian countries to achieve development in health sector," Suvo said.
Colonial rulers saw the commercial significance of the river and made arrangements to use it for trading purposes since 1819. At first it was a place for barge lighters to transport goods to warehouses.
The boat floats on the river with no plunge in the least. The motor sound does not hiss. This was not what I expected. I was bracing myself for some hectic bumps and jolts, but was pleasantly disappointed. Perhaps it was due to the heaviness of the boat. The boat's radio synchronises what we see outside. We passed across the colonial Governor's mansion and other historically important colonial government offices. It gives you a good picture of colonial Singapore. With the well-lit tall buildings the moon seems to be yet another man-made light. The night scenery is glistening though you can have a close look at the outline of the buildings in daytime. Although it's little in the size, the Singapore River has a historical weight. This is one of the 90 rivers in Singapore.
The boatman who speaks to us through an interpreter, for some reason doesn't need his picture or name to go in the paper. But he volunteers for any information.
"We have been cruising along for a long time. As this river was used even during the colonial times, it has become so polluted," he said.
The Singapore Government has replaced cargo services with a new modern facility in Pasir Panjang. The transport has left for their new home and Clarke Quay fell silent. This took place because the Clarke Quay has a colonial value, and the environment was made much better from 1977 to 1987 and made arrangements for entertainment purposes.
The plans were afoot in a serious mode, as it was made compulsory not to change the historical facades of the neighbouring buildings. Some of the buildings are being restored as well.
The quay of the river is popularly known as Clarke Quay named after Singapore's second Governor Sir Andrew Clarke. He is famous for his role in development of Singapore.
The Forbidden City is a luxury you cannot simply afford to pass over.
It gives you a good dining environment open till 6 in the following morning.
It's the Chinese version of Madame Tassauds' Chamber of Horrors, with vernacular music with bali dancers. Although the restaurants do not have many vegetarian dishes, the available ones are quite mouthwatering. Once a colonial area is now refurbished for restaurants and nightclubs.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/03/28/fea11.asp
